Metro rail rehab package delayed

Metro rail rehab package delayed
Deccan Herald

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation is seeking the assistance of Bangalore Mahanagara Palike and Bangalore Development Authority in the formulation of rehabilitation packages for the benefit of small traders affected by the Bangalore Metro.

According to sources, the BMRC is planning to tap space in the commercial complexes of BDA and BMP to house the shops of ‘neighbourhood shopkeepers’ who will be displaced following land acquisition for the Metro.

Sources reveal that talks were on with the BMP and BDA Commissioners on the issue over the last one week, but the reshuffle of officials announced on Thursday will delay the proceedings. The rehabilitation options were to be submitted to the government this weekend, but has now been postponed by a week.

BMRC is also looking at creating commercial bays at the four terminal stations - Byappanahalli, Peenya, Swastik and Mysore Road - to accommodate the affected traders. The earlier suggestion, of adding a new floor for commercial activities at every station, was dismissed due to aesthetic reasons, sources said.

“The BMRC is also considering buying land and constructing commercial complexes near the stations, as another possible option,” they added.